A superstore worker bravely fended off an alleged knife attacker at a Sainsbury’s Argos warehouse by hitting him on the head with a fire extinguisher.
Five people were injured in the incident at an Argos warehouse in Marlowe Way, Croydon on Thursday morning.
Scotland Yard said five men – one in his 50s, two in their 30s and two in their 20s – were taken to hospital for stab wounds.
The force said a 30-year man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon.
Workers have told how they barricaded themselves during the incident.
Joseph Denton, 29, said he fought off the attacker as he attempted to close a door to the warehouse
He said: “He didn’t say a word. He was trying to kill me and I’d never seen him before in my life.
“He stabbed two people in the chest, one had a big gash in his arm. I think someone in the side as well.”
Mr Denton, who is from Rayleigh, Essex, added: “It sounded like someone was getting murdered. So, we thought we’ve got to go and help them.
“He got to the door before I could shut it and he got half of his body through, and was stabbing at me in my chest, and I was deflecting it.
“He sliced my finger open and got a couple other cuts on my arms, and then basically fought him off there.
“There was about six of us all attacking him at this point, and then he ran off.”
The Metropolitan Police confirmed a man was arrested, and said he was taken to hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.
Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, local policing commander for south London, said: “Officers responded quickly and arrested the suspect within an hour. An investigation is now under way.
“Based on initial enquiries we believe all those involved knew each other. Therefore we do not believe there is any wider risk to the public.”
An Argos spokesperson said: “We’re doing everything we can to support the teams on site and gathering as much information as possible to support the police with their investigation.”
